As a small business owner offering content writing, marketing communications and speaker training services to clients, I enjoy what I do. My clients represent various organizations and industries, and I appreciate the opportunity to work with them as a freelancer. I'm thankful for the trust they've placed in me.

However, to me, the biggest challenge today to being a freelancer is the fluctuation in income from month to month. I'm single with no kids, living with my dog Levi, a terrier mix.

So I'll continue to search for a full-time job, an daunting endeavor primarily given one fact: I'm 63 years old, a "senior" by some accounts. Today, more organizations seem to be recruiting millennials as full-time employees. I'm not against millennials, but I'm not a member of this group.

According to the Social Security Administration, a 65-year-old can expect to live another 19 to 21 years on average. Studies have shown there is no consistent relationship between aging and performance at work. I'm willing to work with a single employer who could benefit from the years of experience, business savvy and skill set I would bring to the table. I'm motivated by new challenges, enjoy learning and would welcome employee benefits.

I completely understand why companies contract with freelancers from a business perspective. They save money and resources. There are no benefits to pay, and if freelancers work remotely (as I do), there's no need for office space. Employers across every industry use contractors to fill skill and work gaps within their organizations. Today's labor market has shifted from stable, permanent employment to a gig economy of contracted or temporary jobs. And many contractors appreciate the work-life balance compared to traditional jobs.

I want to continue working, and I will, yet I'd like a full-time job. Particularly for employers selling products or services to older Americans, doesn't it just make sense to get some input from seniors on how to market most effectively to that group? A "senior" like me?

Employers and human resources departments, don't disregard older workers. Don't place their applications and resumes in the trash heap. You may be missing out on valuable insights and experience to boost your company's profits.

Phyllis Duggan is a writer in Waxahachie and a Dallas Morning News 2018 Community Voices columnist.